Woodworm Observations

Wordworm Observations


Woodworm is not akin to a termite infestation, and is eminently treatable, but it must be eradicated.

In severe cases damage can be quite extensive, resulting in full timber replacement, especially in flooring where both joists and boards may need to be replaced. Infestations in many areas, under floors and in lofts, may go unnoticed, resulting in long term damage.

woodworm observations

For the majority of cases treatment will involve replacing a few timbers and spraying with an approved insecticide. 

Woodworm generally infests damp, deadwood throughout the countryside where it can reduce timbers fairly quickly, in the dryer conditions within property the speed of the damage is much reduced but longer lived. If timber becomes more moist, then the woodworm will thrive. Damper areas of the property such as under floors, in the roof and garages are places woodworm particularly attack.

woodworm observationsPoor ventilation, and moisture producing areas, eg. Kitchens and bathrooms, can all contribute to the ideal living conditions of woodworm. The female lays her eggs in old flight holes which increases the success rate of development and allows each generation to firmly establish itself. Wood is hydroscopic, meaning it can absorb moisture from the air. Previously dry timber can quickly become attractive to infestation.

Finding woodworm is not always easy as it is often in concealed areas and the emergence or flight holes are very small. Woodworm finds sapwood more palatable than heartwood. The former represents the more recent growth in a tree and contains more sugars and nutrients than the older heartwood.  It is less dense and contains fewer toxins


woodworm observations treatmentWoodworm can be found anywhere. It may favour the damper areas such as around the loft hatch and along the eaves. From my own experience it will emerge in all timbers eventually, hence the necessity for a full treatment. 


Because of its very inaccessibility the area beneath floors can harbour a long lived and unnoticed infestation. Floor boards may look pristine on top while being thoroughly peppered with exit holes on the underside. The structural failure may suddenly become dramatically apparent when part of the floor gives way under pressure from above. Look for occasional flight holes and spongy movement when walking across surfaces.


dsc00386A common area of infestation, as the timbers in garage roofs are that little bit moister and very accessible to beetle attack. As in all infestations yellow sawdust frass (woodworm waste) may be observed streaked on timbers. Visually this is first observed lying as a layer of dust on items stored in the garage.  It stands out on black items, and the car windscreen!

If you think you have found woodworm call ourselves for  free advice. It is usually treatable with a minimum of fuss with colourless water based chemicals. It may not be as expensive as you initially feared.

Call Martin Smith Woodworm Treatment

  • Telephone: 0800 533 5650